Suffolk County Council is inviting applications from experienced and influential local business people to join the Suffolk Business Board, which was established in 2024 to help drive economic growth across the county.
The board meets 6 times a year to help shape economic strategy and priorities for Suffolk, oversee delivery of funded programmes such as business support and skills training, and work closely with partners such as district councils, neighbouring counties and national economic and trade bodies.
Existing Suffolk Business Board members include a strong core of local business leaders alongside representatives from education and key strategic partners. New members will be joining a dynamic and proactive group, with the opportunity to immediately begin contributing to Suffolk’s economic development.
The recruitment comes at a key time, as the Business Board moves into its next phase of delivery, focusing on the investment and long-term economic priorities that will shape Suffolk for years to come.
Expressions of interest should be emailed to businessboard@suffolk.gov.uk by Monday 23 February with a short biography or CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the opportunity and what area(s) of expertise you feel you could bring.
Board membership is a voluntary position, and terms are for up to three years from the date of appointment. The Business Board is supported by a dedicated team of council officers.
Applications would be welcome from candidates with backgrounds in the key sectors as identified in the Local Growth Plan, including Agrifood, Clean Energy, Visitor Economy and Advanced Manufacturing.
The new members will fill two vacancies that result from existing board members coming to the end of their terms.
Cllr Richard Smith MVO, Suffolk County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for finance, economic development and skills, said:
“During its two years, the Suffolk Business Board has brought together senior business leaders from across the county to help shape a clear and ambitious direction for Suffolk’s economy, invested £5m in local projects to support growth and overseen a further £7m of government funded projects. The Board is already playing an important role in setting priorities, strengthening partnerships and ensuring that economic growth in Suffolk is driven by business insight and local expertise.
“We are now looking to build on that momentum by welcoming new members who can bring fresh perspectives, strong sector knowledge and a commitment to Suffolk’s future. Successful applicants will help influence economic strategy, support the delivery of key programmes, and act as advocates for Suffolk as a great place to do business, invest and grow.”
